Summit CU Celebrates Wisconsin’s Co-ops

In celebration of cooperatives and what they contribute to communities, Summit Credit Union will host the third annual Co-op Connection on Oct. 5 in Madison, Wis.

The free, public event will be held outdoors next to a local farmers’ market and will feature more than 20 interactive booths hosted by area cooperatives. Attendees will also get to hear live music from local musicians.

Madison Mayor Paul Soglin will speak briefly about the environment the city provides for co-ops to thrive and the role they play in the area’s local economy and quality of life, according to the $1.9 billion Summit CU in Madison.

“Visitors to Co-op Connection have been pleasantly surprised to see how many different business types are cooperatives, available to offer them savings and value on a wide variety of products and services.” said Kim Sponem, president/CEO of Summit CU. “It’s a thriving business model, and we’re proud to partner with other cooperatives to share that message.”

The Co-op Connection coincides with the kickoff of National Co-op Month in October.

The event, hosted and sponsored by Summit CU is also co-sponsored by CUNA Mutual Group, Group Health Cooperative, Willy Street Co-op, Union Cab, Wisconsin Rx and National Cooperative Rx, CUNA, Wisconsin Credit Union League and UW Center for Cooperatives. The Cooperative Network also provided planning and volunteer support.

More than 500 visitors are expected at this year’s event, according to Summit CU.